1988 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Saturn Relay
To start off, 2005 Saturn Relay is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Saturn Relay is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn Relay (200 HP) has 71 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn Relay should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn Relay weights approximately 376 kg more than 1988 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Saturn Relay, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Saturn Relay (298 Nm) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn Relay will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 2005 Saturn Relay | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 520 | Relay |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1946 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.5 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
